Dear nieces,
I write to you because I cherish you both deeply, and I recognize the boundless potential within you. You may not fully grasp my words now, at 14 and 4 years old, but as time passes, you will grow into your unique brilliance. I am confident in this because I have observed you intimately and from afar, aware of the rich legacy—history, blood, wisdom, and sacrifice—that brought you here.
This year, our nation, America, marks its 250th anniversary, celebrating its proclamation of freedom and democracy. Yet, it is essential to acknowledge that when America was “founded” in 1776, many of our ancestors, African Americans, were enslaved, contributing without compensation to the very foundation of this nation still in its youth. Despite the thoughtful rhetoric of figures like Thomas Jefferson, their declaration that “all men are created equal” excluded poor Whites, Indigenous communities, and Blacks, whether free or enslaved; notably, it also overlooked women and girls like you.
America’s existence has been tumultuous, from the onset, heavily influenced by race and racism and deeply affected by gender bias. This letter aims to convey my experiences because, like your parents, grandparents, and your auntie—my wife—I have endured considerable adversity. As a child and teenager, at your ages, I could not comprehend the universe I was entering. I believed my mother’s teachings—to have faith, excel academically, and labor diligently—would secure my well-being. Sadly, this formula does not guarantee success for African Americans in America, neither then nor now.
The quest for freedom and democracy is challenging considering the historic enslavement of our people for nearly 250 years, relieved only by a brutal Civil War. Equally daunting is the realization that it took another century for individuals like my mother and grandparents to gain voting rights and a semblance of citizenship. The Civil Rights Movement, propelled by figures such as Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, Bayard Rustin, and John Lewis, reshaped our destiny and society at large. Without our labor, creativity in music, art, food, inventions, and other contributions, America as we know it might not exist. I am formed by this legacy and so are you.
I emerged from dire poverty, raised by a single mother amid an absent father, desolation, and hopelessness. Yet, fueled by my mother’s vision and resilience, I achieved academically and fulfilled my dream of becoming a writer. This journey enabled me to visit all 50 U.S. states and five continents. These accomplishments stem from the audacity of previous generations who believed in claiming freedom and democracy.
As we mark this 250th anniversary, new challenges surface, with closed doors, resurging hatred, policies of exclusion, and violence reminiscent of my mother’s segregated upbringing. We may survey uncertain futures, but we possess the resilience required to navigate these predicaments.
Your identities as Black and female should remain central, as Black women and girls are unparalleled in leadership and perseverance. Racism and sexism pervade, yet it’s the magic inherent in your essence that facilitates progress.
You must love yourselves and each other, as your existence hinges on this bond. Knowing your history provides the roadmap to understanding your identity, reinforcing the belief in your capabilities despite lurking adversity. You must champion freedom and democracy, continuing the legacy of your predecessors.
Some might argue my perspective fixates solely on race or you two specifically. In truth, my regard for all humanity informs my actions, driven by love’s fundamental principles. Practicing love should not entail self-diminishment or martyrdom.
We exist in a turbulent era where diversity is often marginalized. Facts and lives are dismissed by naysayers. Do not heed their negativity; instead, trust the wisdom of family who endorse love’s possibilities amidst current events.
Although America celebrates prematurely, true freedom and democracy entail equitable opportunities for all, devoid of exclusion. You, like me, must personify compassion, advocating for the dignity of every individual. Never forget that women’s equality is non-negotiable, and any society undervaluing women undermines life’s sanctity.
I hope for you an America that fulfills its promise, even if I never witness it firsthand, assured of its potential because of your existence. Challenges abound, mirrored in my experiences, yet my unwavering faith persists, rooted in our presence here.
Your uncle,
Kevin Powell
Kevin Powell is a GRAMMY-nominated poet, humanitarian, filmmaker, public speaker, and frequent Newsweek contributor. Author of 17 books, including his latest poetry collection, ‘A Poem for Evangeline, And Other Songs’, he resides in New York City. Connect on social media by searching ‘poet Kevin Powell’.
The views expressed here are solely those of the author.
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